Edmonton, AB - In a recent interview, former Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner reflected on his time with the team, particularly addressing the perception of how he was treated during his tenure. Skinner, who was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins on December 12th, alongside Brett Kulak in exchange for Tristan Jarry, spent parts of six seasons with the Oilers.

Skinner's time in Edmonton was marked by both highs and lows. The Edmonton-born goalie backstopped the Oilers to back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances in 2024 and 2025. Individually, Skinner recorded a career-high .914 save percentage in the 2022-23 season. However, his save percentage dipped below .900 in the subsequent seasons.

While Skinner acknowledged the support he received from many within the Oilers organization and the Edmonton fanbase, he also alluded to feeling a greater sense of support and unity within the Penguins organization. "I think here, it's honestly just a great feeling. I feel like everyone's really rooting for you and is really 'all together'," Skinner explained, highlighting the "family-oriented nature" and positive atmosphere he's experienced in Pittsburgh. He added, "Just the whole feeling around this room, it's been nothing but positive here...I already kind of forget what it was like in Edmonton".

Skinner also reflected on the pressures of playing goal in a Canadian market, where expectations are high and scrutiny intense. He recognized the passion of Oilers fans but also noted the challenges of maintaining confidence and consistency amid constant evaluation. Skinner admitted that at times he wished he had chosen a different position to play.

Since joining the Penguins, Skinner has posted a 5-4 record with a .898 save percentage and a 2.49 goals-against average in nine games. Overall this season, combining his time with both the Oilers and Penguins, Skinner has a 17-12-4 record, a 2.67 goals-against average, and a .894 save percentage.

The Oilers have seen improved goaltending since acquiring Tristan Jarry, who has a 4-1-1 record, a 2.48 goals-against average, and a .904 save percentage since the trade.

Skinner also spoke highly of his former teammates, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. "It is really cool, thinking about it, that I got to play with, I mean, the best players that have ever played the game," Skinner said. He acknowledged their determination, work ethic, and discipline, while also noting the similar qualities he sees in Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in Pittsburgh.

Skinner will not be starting in the Penguins'game against the Oilers on Thursday.